Remember those perfect breakfast sandwiches with sweet pancake buns and savory fillings? Now you can recreate that magic right in your own kitchen! These easy, family-friendly Copycat McGriddle Bites capture all that deliciousness in a convenient, bite-sized form. They are incredibly simple to make and ideal for busy mornings or as a fantastic make-ahead meal prep option, perfectly balancing sweet and savory flavors.
Why You’ll Love These Copycat McGriddle Bites
These delightful breakfast bites offer everything you crave from your favorite fast-food breakfast, but with the comfort of a homemade touch. Sweet Emily believes in making baking simple, and this recipe delivers just that.
- They deliver the perfect sweet and savory combination that wakes up your taste buds.
- Quick and easy to prepare, these are ideal for beginners and busy parents alike.
- They make great options for busy mornings, ensuring a warm, satisfying breakfast.
- These homemade McGriddle-style bites are excellent for meal prep, saving you time later.
- A freezer-friendly breakfast option, simply reheat for a convenient meal anytime.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Copycat McGriddle Bites. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry already!
- 2 cups of Hungry Jack Pancake Mix
- 1 1/2 cups of water
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with many of these ingredients, allowing you to tailor these breakfast bites to your family’s preferences.
You can use any complete pancake mix like Hungry Jack or Krusteaz; just follow the package directions for water quantity. Feel free to use different breakfast sausages such as chicken, turkey, or even a maple-flavored pork sausage. For the best flavor and melt, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-bagged. Consider adding pre-cooked scrambled eggs to the batter for extra protein. Crispy bacon bits also make a delicious substitution for sausage.
Equipment
Having the right tools ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You won’t need anything fancy for these delicious Copycat McGriddle Bites.
You will need an oven and a skillet to cook the sausage. A large mixing bowl helps combine all the ingredients easily. Most importantly, grab a mini muffin pan; a silicone one is highly recommended for easy release of your breakfast bites.
Instructions
Making your own Copycat McGriddle Bites is incredibly straightforward with these step-by-step instructions. You’ll have a batch of these delicious breakfast treats ready in no time.
Step 1: Prep Sausage
Begin by browning your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned and crumbled. After cooking, make sure to drain the grease really well to avoid soggy bites. Set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare Batter
Next, prepare the pancake batter according to your pancake mix package directions. Combine the 2 cups of pancake mix with 1 1/2 cups of water in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring all the flavors together for your homemade McGriddle-style bites. Stir the cooked and drained sausage into the pancake batter. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and the 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Mix all the ingredients well until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Fill Muffin Pan
If you are not using a nonstick or silicone mini muffin pan, make sure to grease it thoroughly. Use cooking spray or a little butter. Scoop the batter into each cup of the prepared mini muffin pan. Fill each cup only about halfway to allow for rising.
Step 5: Bake Bites
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filled muffin pan into the preheated oven. Bake your Copycat McGriddle Bites for 12-15 minutes. They are ready when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the mini muffin pan from the oven. Let the pancake muffins cool slightly in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This recipe yields approximately 48 mini pancake muffins. Serve your delicious Copycat McGriddle Bites with extra maple syrup for dipping and enjoy! Let us know if you try them out!
Start your day right with these irresistible Copycat McGriddle Bites, loaded with savory goodness!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect Copycat McGriddle Bites is simple with a few helpful pointers. Sweet Emily is here to make your baking journey successful.
Perfect Pancake Bites
Avoid overmixing your pancake batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and lead to a tender crumb. Always ensure your sausage is well-drained to prevent greasy bites. If you use a regular-sized muffin tin, adjust the baking time, as larger muffins will need longer.
Flavor Enhancements
Experiment with adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of black pepper to your sausage while browning for extra depth. Try different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or a colby jack blend. A small dash of vanilla extract in the batter can also enhance the sweet notes of these delicious Copycat McGriddle Bites.
Common Mistakes
Not preheating the oven correctly can affect the rise and texture of your bites. Avoid overfilling muffin cups, as this can cause them to overflow and create a mess. If you are not using a silicone pan, inadequate greasing can lead to sticking, so grease thoroughly.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
These versatile Copycat McGriddle Bites are perfect for any occasion and can be customized to your liking. They are also excellent for meal planning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delightful Copycat McGriddle Bites alongside scrambled eggs and a side of fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. Offer a variety of dipping syrups, such as berry syrup or sugar-free options, to cater to different tastes.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Copycat McGriddle Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
When preparing freezer meals, it’s essential to follow food safety guidelines for freezing and storage to prevent bacterial growth and maintain quality.
Reheating Options
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, microwave the frozen or refrigerated bites for a quick reheat, about 30-60 seconds for frozen. Alternatively, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to achieve a crispier texture.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your Copycat McGriddle Bites! Instead of pork sausage, try bacon bits or ground turkey sausage. Explore different pancake mixes like blueberry or protein pancake mixes for added flavor or nutritional boost. For even more substance, add cooked scrambled eggs directly to the batter. You can also experiment with savory additions like finely diced cooked onions or bell peppers for a heartier bite.
Nutrition
Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for these homemade Copycat McGriddle Bites. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on exact ingredient brands and quantities used. This is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
Copycat McGriddle Bites: Easy Homemade Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain the grease thoroughly and set the sausage aside.
- Combine pancake mix with water according to package directions, then stir in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and maple syrup.
- Pour the mixture into a greased mini muffin pan and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes.
Notes
FAQ
Sweet Emily receives many questions about making delicious breakfast treats. Here are answers to some common inquiries about these easy Copycat McGriddle Bites.
Can I use a regular muffin tin?
Yes, you can absolutely use a regular muffin tin, but you will need to adjust the baking time. Expect them to bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I add eggs directly to the batter?
For the best texture and to prevent the bites from becoming watery, pre-cook any scrambled eggs before adding them to the batter. This ensures a more consistent result.
Are these gluten-free friendly?
Yes, making Copycat McGriddle Bites gluten-free is simple! Just use your favorite gluten-free complete pancake mix, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How long do these last in the fridge/freezer?
These delicious bites will last for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. In the freezer, they can be stored for up to 2-3 months for a convenient grab-and-go breakfast.
What pancake mix brand is best?
Any complete pancake mix will work wonderfully for this recipe. Brands like Hungry Jack or Krusteaz are popular choices that consistently produce great results.
Conclusion
These Copycat McGriddle Bites are a true game-changer for breakfast, offering a delightful combination of sweet and savory in an incredibly easy-to-make package. Perfect for busy parents and beginners, they embody Sweet Emily’s mission to make baking simple and time-saving. We encourage you to try this fantastic recipe and bring that nostalgic breakfast magic home. Share your creations with us and leave a comment with your feedback—we love hearing from you!
